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What is the wavelength range of yellow?

Published in Optics 2 mins read

The wavelength range of yellow light is approximately 570–580 nanometres (nm). This range falls in the middle of the visible light spectrum, which is the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that the human eye can perceive.

Understanding the Visible Spectrum

The visible spectrum is the range of electromagnetic radiation that is visible to the human eye. Think of it as a rainbow of colors, each with a corresponding wavelength. The colors of the visible spectrum, in order of decreasing wavelength, are:

  • Red
  • Orange
  • Yellow
  • Green
  • Blue
  • Indigo
  • Violet

Yellow light, with its wavelength range of 570-580 nm, sits comfortably between orange and green in this spectrum.

Yellow in Art and Physics

It's important to note that while the wavelength range for yellow is quite specific in physics, the concept of yellow in art can be slightly different. In art, yellow is considered a primary color on the traditional RYB color model, located between orange and green on the color wheel. It is also considered the opposite color of violet (its complementary color) on the color wheel. This distinction highlights that the perception and use of color can vary slightly depending on the field.

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